Colorado Springs Wrongful Death Lawyers

Wrongful Death Attorneys Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs Wrongful Death Lawyers Serving Families Seeking Justice

Wrongful death claims are a relatively recent addition to American law. Historically, families couldn’t pursue legal action for losses sustained when a loved one died due to another’s negligence. This created an inequitable situation where injured survivors could recover compensation, but families received nothing if the victim died.

To address this imbalance, states enacted wrongful death statutes establishing legal grounds for families to seek compensation. Since these laws are statutory creations, wrongful death cases differ significantly from personal injury cases, requiring attorneys with specialized expertise.

The Colorado wrongful death attorneys at McCormick & Murphy, P.C. offer free consultations to discuss your case, with no legal fees unless compensation is recovered. Our team serves clients throughout Colorado Springs, Denver, and Pueblo.

What Accidents Can Lead to a Colorado Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death actions can arise from numerous incidents, including:

Some of the most common types include the following:

ATV accidents
Recreational accidents
Sports accidents
Violent assaults
Bicycle accidents
Dog Bites

Pool and hot tub accidents
Medication errors
Workplace accidents
Construction accidents
Industrial accidents
Consumer product accidents

To recover damages, surviving family members must establish that the incident resulting in death was caused by negligence, recklessness, or intentional conduct. Building such a case typically requires substantial evidence, including:

Eyewitness statements
Surveillance footage
Accident reports
Cell phone records
Vehicle computer data
Vehicle maintenance records
Internal business documents
Expert witness testimony
Medical records

Since involved parties may resist producing evidence or even attempt to destroy it, it’s crucial for families to secure experienced legal representation promptly.

Who can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Who can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Colorado Springs?

Colorado law strictly limits who can file wrongful death claims and imposes specific time constraints based on relationship to the deceased:

During the first year after death: Only a surviving spouse may file, with three exceptions:
1. The spouse may include the decedent’s children as plaintiffs
2. If the deceased was unmarried, their children may file
3. If the deceased was unmarried with no children, their parents may file
During the second year: Both spouses and designated beneficiaries may file. If the spouse filed during the first year, they may join any claim filed by heirs or beneficiaries during the second year.

Unlike many states, Colorado limits eligible parties to linear descendants, excluding siblings, nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

What Types of Damages are Available Under Colorado’s Wrongful Death Statute?

Determining damages in Colorado wrongful death cases is complex, with compensation assessed by a judge or jury. Plaintiffs may recover:

Economic Damages: Compensation for financial losses, including lost financial support. These calculations often involve complex analysis of life expectancy and projected future earnings.
Non-Economic Damages: Compensation for the loss of companionship, emotional support, and guidance the deceased would have provided, plus the pain and suffering experienced by plaintiffs.
Punitive Damages: Available in cases involving particularly egregious conduct, designed to punish defendants and deter similar behavior.

Contact an Experienced Colorado Wrongful Death Attorney

Contact an Experienced Colorado Springs Wrongful Death Lawyer

Losing a loved one to another’s negligent or wrongful conduct is devastating. While no compensation can bring them back, legal action can provide financial stability and a sense of justice.

The Colorado wrongful death lawyers at McCormick & Murphy, P.C. have advocated for injury victims since 1995, working tirelessly to secure the best possible outcomes. Our attorneys understand the emotional and financial challenges facing families after a wrongful death and provide compassionate, dedicated representation throughout the legal process.

Our offices in Colorado Springs, Denver, and Pueblo serve clients throughout El Paso County and the state. We handle all aspects of wrongful death litigation, from investigating the circumstances of death to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you at trial.

Contact us today at (719) 800-9407 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your legal options.

Colorado Springs Wrongful Death Lawyers

Wrongful Death Attorneys Colorado Springs